Netanyahu Urges US to Block F-35 Jet Deal With Türkiye Over Middle East Power Concerns

Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urged the United States not to approve the sale of F-35 fighter jets or related technology to Türkiye, arguing that the move could alter the military balance in the Middle East.

According to Beyond Time News, Netanyahu made the remarks during an interview while Washington and Ankara continued discussions over Türkiye’s efforts to regain access to advanced fighter aircraft technology and secure components for its domestic defense programs.

Netanyahu Raises Concerns Over F-35 Technology Transfer

Netanyahu said providing Türkiye with advanced fighter capabilities could affect what he described as Israel’s strategic air advantage in the region.

He argued that the United States should carefully consider the regional consequences before approving any transfer of F-35 aircraft or fighter jet components.

The Israeli leader said maintaining Israel’s military edge has been a key element of regional security policy and warned that advanced aircraft technology could influence the existing balance of power.

Netanyahu’s comments reflect longstanding tensions between Israel and Türkiye, particularly over disagreements regarding regional policies and the conflict in Gaza.

Türkiye Seeks Return to F-35 Programme

Türkiye has been seeking access to advanced fighter technology after being removed from the F-35 Lightning II program in 2019.

The move followed Ankara’s purchase of the Russian-made S-400 Triumf air defense system in 2017.

Washington argued that operating the S-400 system alongside the F-35 could create security risks by potentially exposing sensitive information about the aircraft’s capabilities.

As a result, Türkiye was suspended from the F-35 program and prevented from receiving the aircraft it had planned to purchase.

Ankara Looks to Strengthen Domestic Fighter Project

According to Beyond Time News, Türkiye is also seeking advanced engines for its indigenous TAI Kaan fighter project.

The KAAN program is part of Ankara’s effort to develop a domestically produced fifth-generation combat aircraft, placing Türkiye among countries pursuing advanced fighter manufacturing capabilities.

Defense analysts say access to modern engines remains one of the most important challenges for countries developing next-generation aircraft.

Trump Signals Possible Progress With Türkiye

The issue gained renewed attention after US President Donald Trump indicated that he wanted to improve relations with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

Trump previously suggested that Erdoğan could receive positive developments regarding Türkiye’s defense requests, raising expectations in Ankara over possible progress on fighter aircraft cooperation.

The upcoming diplomatic engagement between Washington and Ankara is being closely watched because defense cooperation remains a major issue in bilateral relations.

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Regional Security Debate Continues

The possible return of Türkiye to aspects of the F-35 program has generated debate among US allies.

Supporters argue that strengthening Türkiye’s military partnership with Washington could improve cooperation within NATO and encourage closer strategic ties.

Opponents, including Israeli officials, argue that transferring advanced military technology requires careful consideration because of broader regional security dynamics.

The issue also reflects wider disagreements among NATO members over defense procurement, foreign policy priorities, and relations with rival powers.

Netanyahu Maintains Alliance With Trump

During the interview, Netanyahu also emphasized that his relationship with President Trump remains strong despite recent disagreements over regional issues, including developments related to Iran.

He described the United States and Israel as close allies and said cooperation between the two countries continues.

Why This Matters

The debate over Türkiye’s access to F-35 technology highlights the complex security relationships shaping the Middle East and NATO.

Advanced fighter aircraft are not only military assets but also symbols of strategic influence. Any decision involving their transfer can affect regional alliances, defense planning, and diplomatic relations among major powers.

The final decision on Türkiye’s requests will depend on discussions between Ankara and Washington, as well as broader assessments of security implications.

Conclusion

Benjamin Netanyahu has called on the United States to reject any move to provide F-35 fighter jets or related technology to Türkiye, warning that it could affect the Middle East’s military balance. Türkiye, meanwhile, continues efforts to strengthen its air capabilities and revive defense cooperation with Washington. The issue remains part of a broader debate over NATO relations, regional security, and the future of advanced military technology transfers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Netanyahu opposing F-35 sales to Türkiye?

Netanyahu argues that providing Türkiye with advanced fighter technology could change the regional military balance and affect Israel’s air superiority.

Why was Türkiye removed from the F-35 program?

Türkiye was removed after purchasing Russia’s S-400 missile defense system, which Washington said created security concerns.

What is Türkiye’s KAAN fighter project?

KAAN is Türkiye’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft program aimed at developing advanced domestic military aviation capabilities.

Could Türkiye return to the F-35 program?

Any return would require approval from the United States and resolution of disputes related to the S-400 system.

Why is the F-35 considered important?

The F-35 is a fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft with advanced sensors, technology, and combat capabilities used by several US allies.

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